Charles Phoenix's Retro Holiday Show

Courtesy of Charles Phoenix Charles Phoenix promises to show lots of kitschy slides when he appears Saturday in Ventura. "The film was Kodachrome, and everything was so bright," he says. "Everything during that era was so supercharged."

Kitschy holiday-themed slides — like this one of a giant, winking snowman — will be a big part of Charles Phoenix's retro show Saturday night in Ventura.

Courtesy of Charles Phoenix "Food crafting" is Charles Phoenix's latest hobby. This tinfoil-covered tower of calories is called an Astro-Weenie Christmas Tree and it's bedecked with pickles, olives, broccoli, cheese chunks and lots and lots of cocktail weenies.

Courtesy of Charles Phoenix Charles Phoenix discovered thrift stores at age 14 and became enthralled with all the "vintage-y stuff" he could buy. He's since turned that hobby into a career as an expert on kitschy Americana.

LEFT: Vintage images like these are like "little time machines," says Charles Phoenix (top). PHOTOS Courtesy of Charles Phoenix

Courtesy of Charles Phoenix Charles Phoenix is a retro junkie who deeply loves all things vintage, from 35mm slides to neon hotel signs. When he visits Ventura on Saturday, he'll be on the lookout for the "classic and the kitschy."

Courtesy of Charles Phoenix Two children appear to be showing off their favorite Christmas presents in this 35mm slide image. Charles Phoenix calls the photo,"Don't Shoot the Nativity Scene."

Courtesy of Charles Phoenix Charles Phoenix discovered thrift stores at age 14 and became enthralled with all the "vintage-y stuff" he could buy. He's since turned that hobby into a career as an expert on kitschy Americana.